China's May aluminium imports show a modest 1.8% Y-o-Y increase

The largest producer and consumer of aluminium, China’s customs data on June 18, 2023, revealed that aluminium imports in May inclined 1.8 per cent from the previous year. However, despite this, arrivals decreased from the last month due to sluggish industrial demand.

According to the General Administration of Customs data, China brought in 191,701 tonnes of unwrought aluminium and products, including primary metal and unwrought, alloyed aluminium, in May. This was lower than the 222,851 tonnes imported in April 2022 but higher than the 188,469 tonnes imported in the same month in 2022.

AL Circle's industry-focused report, 'Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2023', revealed that the transport sector would drive the demand for aluminium, followed by the construction and packaging industry.

Comprehensively, aluminium consumption remained fragile, owing to dull housing performance, an unexpected decline in May industry activity, and a muted export market.

According to the China Car Passenger Association, In May 2023, Chinese passenger car production and sales increased by 18 per cent and 28.2 per cent, respectively. Nevertheless, increased output in the automotive and solar industries helped somewhat support demand.